Bath Spa University

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Biology

An interesting and challenging programme examining both contemporary issues and classical biological concepts.

For more information about this course please visit the School of Science, Society and Management website.

At Bath Spa University you can study the full breadth of Biology or specialise in specific areas such as human biology, conservation, animal biology and plant biology. Our lecturers have specialist interests in a wide range of animals, plants and environments and this is reflected in the breadth and depth of the lecture programme.

There is an emphasis on practical work, both in the laboratory and field, which together with project work and field courses adds depth and understanding to the lectures.

We offer a friendly and pleasant study environment working, mostly in small classes, with enthusiastic lecturers who have backgrounds from academia, research, consultancy, government agencies and voluntary organisations. This provides an excellent environment to develop your personal interests and prepare you for a range of careers.

Course Structure and Content

Each year has both compulsory and optional modules covering a range of topics. The exact mix depends upon the award and the interests you wish to follow.

Year 1

• Biological Structure and Function;
• Biodiversity and Conservation;
• Disease and Public Health;
• Environmental Biology;
• Human Biology;
• Introduction to Microbiology.

Year 2

• Animal Biology;
• Biological Basis of Behaviour;
• Biological Research Skills;
• Ecology;
• Exercise and Fitness;
• Human Environments;
• Human Nutrition;
• Plant Biology;
• Professional Studies in Biology;
• Wildlife Conservation.

Year 3

• Research Project;
• Animal Behaviour;
• Bio-society;
• Ecological Assessment;
• Evolutionary Psychology;
• Field Biology;
• Marine Biology;
• Plants and People;
• Specialist Research Topic;
• Wastes Management.

Teaching Methods and Resources

The Newton Park campus is an excellent location for the study of Biology. The campus provides a rich variety of woodland, grassland and freshwater habitats, which are used extensively in practical work.

Our laboratories, glasshouses and experimental areas provide specialist facilities for a wide range of practical work including aquatic, ecological, anatomical and soil analysis. Our modern ecological surveying equipment such as bat detectors and night vision wildlife camera enables us to provide a wide range of interesting practical work.

Assessment Methods

Assessment varies between modules. Some modules have a 50:50 split between coursework and examination, while others, including all Year 3 modules, are wholly coursework.

Notes

A recent review of Biology, involving academics from other universities, highlighted particularly impressive features of our programme, including:

• The accessibility, commitment and enthusiasm of the subject team;
• The engendering of a supportive learning community;
• The range and scope of field-based teaching and the extent to which this expertise benefits student learning;
• The applied ethos of the programme and the emphasis on enhancing graduate employability
• The integration of key skills into the curriculum;
• The quality of module handbooks.

Entry Requirements

220-260 UCAS Tariff points (excluding General Studies) eg BCD; BB+AS c. Minimum 80 points from a relevant science subject such as biology, chemistry, human biology, environmental science or social biology.

Alternative qualifications welcome.